Chemical brain drain can be prevented if we recognize it as a serious public health problem. Test methods are available to be included in the documentation for decision-making. Doubt should no longer ...
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Chemical brain drain can be prevented if we recognize it as a serious public health problem. Test methods are available to be included in the documentation for decision-making. Doubt should no longer be used as an excuse for exposing developing brains to toxic chemicals. Although consumers can choose a healthy life-style, especially during pregnancy, this is only a partial solution, and it is seriously dependent on access to information. More to the point, the use and production of chemicals need to reflect ideals of clean production and safe products, while taking into account benefits to today’s children and their children. Precautionary thinking is the key, as we can’t rely on technofixes, special diets, neuroenhancers, or rehabilitation. Strategies and mechanisms must be decided upon on behalf of our children and grandchildren. They may not forgive us otherwise.Less

Brainy Choices

Philippe Grandjean

Published in print: 2013-05-07

Chemical brain drain can be prevented if we recognize it as a serious public health problem. Test methods are available to be included in the documentation for decision-making. Doubt should no longer be used as an excuse for exposing developing brains to toxic chemicals. Although consumers can choose a healthy life-style, especially during pregnancy, this is only a partial solution, and it is seriously dependent on access to information. More to the point, the use and production of chemicals need to reflect ideals of clean production and safe products, while taking into account benefits to today’s children and their children. Precautionary thinking is the key, as we can’t rely on technofixes, special diets, neuroenhancers, or rehabilitation. Strategies and mechanisms must be decided upon on behalf of our children and grandchildren. They may not forgive us otherwise.